Are Nasturtiums Edible? A Complete Guide to Eating Nasturtiums Safely
Yes, nasturtiums are completely edible. In fact, every part of the nasturtium plant can be eaten, including the leaves, flowers, and seeds. Nasturtiums are popular in edible gardens because they are easy to grow, fast growing, attractive, and add bold flavour to food as well as colour to the garden.
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Nasturtiums are cheerful, edible flowers with bright colours and peppery taste — easy to grow in beds, containers, and hanging baskets.
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This guide explains which parts of nasturtiums are edible, what they taste like, how to use them in cooking, and how to eat them safely.
Which Parts of Nasturtiums Are Edible?
All main parts of the nasturtium plant are edible:
- Leaves
- Flowers
- Seeds
As long as plants are grown organically and not treated with chemicals, they are safe to eat.
What Do Nasturtium Leaves Taste Like?
Nasturtium leaves have a peppery, spicy flavour, often compared to watercress, rocket, or mustard greens. The taste comes from natural compounds that give the plant its distinctive heat.
- Young leaves are milder
- Older leaves have a stronger bite
They are commonly used fresh in salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
Are Nasturtium Flowers Edible?
Yes. Nasturtium flowers are edible and slightly milder than the leaves.
- Mild, slightly sweet flavour
- Peppery aftertaste
- Soft texture
They are often used as:
- Salad garnishes
- Decorative toppings
- Edible decorations for summer dishes
The flowers add colour as well as flavour.
Can You Eat Nasturtium Seeds?
Yes. Nasturtium seeds are edible when prepared correctly.
- Fresh green seeds can be pickled
- Pickled seeds are often called “poor man’s capers”
They have a strong, peppery flavour and are used in salads, sauces, and savoury dishes.
How to Use Nasturtiums in Cooking
Nasturtiums are very versatile in the kitchen.
Common uses include:
- Leaves in salads and sandwiches
- Flowers as edible garnishes
- Chopped leaves in pestos and sauces
- Leaves added to omelettes and soft cheeses
- Pickled seeds as a caper substitute
Cooking slightly reduces the peppery heat, while raw use keeps the flavour bold.
Are Nasturtiums Healthy to Eat?
Yes. Nasturtiums contain beneficial nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C
- Antioxidants
- Natural antimicrobial compounds
Historically, they were used in herbal remedies, particularly for immune and respiratory support.
Can You Eat Nasturtiums Every Day?
Nasturtiums are safe to eat in moderation. Their strong flavour means a little goes a long way, and they are best eaten as part of a varied diet rather than in large quantities every day.
People with sensitive stomachs may prefer younger leaves, which are milder.
Are Nasturtiums Safe for Everyone?
Nasturtiums are safe for most people, but:
- Avoid eating plants treated with pesticides
- Introduce them slowly if you’ve never eaten them before
- Stop eating if you experience irritation
As with any edible plant, moderation is key.
Do Nasturtiums Taste Better Raw or Cooked?
Both are good, depending on preference.
- Raw: Strong, peppery, fresh
- Cooked: Milder, softer flavour
Most people prefer them raw to enjoy their distinctive taste.
Growing Nasturtiums for Eating
To grow nasturtiums for eating:
- Use poor to moderately fertile soil
- Avoid chemical feeds and sprays
- Harvest regularly to encourage fresh growth
Plants grown in poor soil often have the best flavour.
Final Thoughts: Are Nasturtiums Edible?
Nasturtiums are one of the most useful edible flowers you can grow. Easy, fast-growing, and completely edible, they provide peppery leaves, colourful flowers, and flavourful seeds that can all be used in the kitchen.
If you’re looking for a plant that combines beauty, flavour, and simplicity, nasturtiums are an excellent choice.